| A Photo Guide to Baja California
& San Igancio Lagoon |
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Getting a close-up
view of one another. Many of the whales have visible scars on their backs
and faces, as well as the barnacles shown on this adult.
Some speculate these scars are the result of scraping against the pangas,
or perhaps on the bottom of the lagoon. Some adult whales' tail flukes
show bite marks- indications of shark attacks. |
| Making sure
everything is securely tied to the roof rack. Rough roads, high winds,
and turbulence from passing vehicles are just a few of the ways things
can get blown off the top of vehicles. In addition to our camping equipment
and kayaks we carried a 5 gallon gas can, and plenty of extra line for
towing, and securing the tent and shade cloth. |
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Springtime in
Baja means cactus flowers. These were found on a giant cordon near Cataviña |
| A roadside shrine
to the Virgin of Guadalupe, along the highway just south of Cataviña.
Catholicism is the major religion in Mexico, and such improvised altars
are common along Hwy. 1. (Crosses and flowers along the road indicate locations
of deadly accidents.) Truckers often stop at these altars to light a candle,
asking for protection and a safe journey. |
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Typical panga
loaded with whale watchers, followed closely by a curious young whale.
Groups vary in size depending on whether you're travelling with a tour
group or on your own. In our case, we made private arrangements with a
local guide, so my husband and I were the only ones in our panga besides
the guide and two children from the fishing camp. Their vigorous splashing
and laughter actually seemed to attract whales to our boat. |
| Camping in Baja
at any time of the year means being prepared for sun, rain, wind, heat
and cold... and don't forget to bring plenty of water. This campsite had
both a large tent and a shade cover. Both were securely tied down in case
of strong winds. |
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On the left:
Cordon cactus, ocotillo and (in the background) tall, spindly boojum plants
near Cataviña, about 300 miles south of the border. Boojum plants,
called "cirios" in Mexico, are found only in certain regions of Baja California.
In the early spring they are covered with green leaves; by June or July
they will bloom. |
